The Plot Thickens

The Plot Thickens

The Plot Thickens Podcast explores the intricate world of storytelling through in-depth discussions, expert insights, and interviews with writers, editors, and creators. With each episode, we delve into the craft of building compelling narratives, whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, or screenwriting. Hosted by Ashley, a seasoned book editor, the podcast offers valuable advice for aspiring and established writers, covering everything from character development to plot structure and the art of revision.

Episodes

November 3, 2025 7 mins

🎙️ In this episode of The Plot Thickens, we dive deep into the art of crafting authentic dialogue that brings your characters to life. From capturing natural speech patterns to balancing realism with readability, we’ll explore techniques that make your characters sound true to themselves—and impossible for readers to forget.

Whether you’re writing fiction, memoir, or narrative nonfiction, learn how to make every conversation on th...

Mark as Played

In this episode of The Plot Thickens, we’re breaking down two key roles in the writing process: the alpha reader and the beta reader. What exactly do they do? When should you bring them into your writing journey? And how can their feedback shape your book for the better?


Whether you’re drafting your very first novel or polishing your tenth, understanding the difference between alpha and beta readers will help you choose the rig...

Mark as Played

I’m pulling back the curtain on what it’s like to be a neurodivergent editor. From hyperfocus highs to executive function fails, I’m sharing the real, raw, and relatable moments that shape how I edit, create, and show up in this industry. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or just curious—this one's for you.


Mark as Played

Not all editors are created equal—and your story deserves the right one. In this episode of The Plot Thickens, I break down the red flags that signal it's time to walk away from an editor—and the green lights that let you know you’ve found someone who respects, protects, and elevates your work. From contracts and NDAs to pricing traps and voice integrity, I give it to you straight with real talk, practical tips, and encouragement e...

Mark as Played

In this episode of The Plot Thickens, we're getting into the nitty-gritty of editing—because let’s be real, most writers have no clue where to start.

I’m breaking down the four key stages of editing:

  1. Developmental Editing

  2. Line Editing

  3. Copyediting

  4. Proofreading

You’ll learn what each one actually does, when you need it, and how to tell which stage your manuscript is in right now. Whether you’re staring at a messy first draft o...

Mark as Played

Welcome to the debut episode of The Plot Thickens! In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how my love for reading and obsession with grammar led me to the world of book editing. From devouring novels as a kid to catching typos in everything I read, my path to becoming an editor wasn’t just a career move—it was inevitable. Tune in as I share the twists and turns of my journey, the lessons I’ve learned, and why I’m so p...

Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang

    Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.

    Crime Junkie

    Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.